March 25th, COVID Update

The time is NOW to practice good hygiene and keep your distance:

• Please remember that the two most important things to do during this time is practice good hygiene (fingers crossed you were doing this before a global pandemic) and keep your social distance (at home and at work).  We are still seeing some employees not respecting the 6 feet rule.

Message from the Credit Union:

• The Credit Union is open for business Monday through Friday 8-4, we ask that members call ahead so we can have the transaction ready in advance 360-501-9500

Financial Update:

• In regards to the PUD’s financial position, we are fortunate to have adequate reserves to enable us to continue paying our employees and vendors as our bill collections may slow given the hardship faced by some of our customers.

Important Updates:

• Gary sent the Board of Commissioners a COVID-19 Operational Report this afternoon.
• Entering/Exiting the Main Office:  With the closure of the Drive-thru, we are expecting an increase in the use of the Kiosk area for customers.  Please use alternate entry doors into the building to avoid the high public traffic area at the main lobby entrance.  Employees may enter using the ramp door, Commerce Ave. door near Credit Union/Engineering, or the Customer Service/Garage door on 12^th Ave. 
• The courtyard gate will be unlocked by Customer Service at 8:00AM and should remain unlocked during business hours for emergency evacuation.  The reception desk will have a key for that gate.
• We continue to have a healthy workforce. We do not have any employees out for COVID reasons.
• Non-essential employees, during normal work hours, are to remain at their primary residence, ready to work and fit for service, while essential employees may be required to report to work.  While on Pandemic Leave employees will be paid their regular wages, on Paid Administrative Leave status or regular time if working remotely.  While some employees may be at home initially, all employees need to be prepared to report to work if called in by your supervisor.
• We will continue to use our TFCC Communications that will send a text message to all employees notifying of any important changes.
• All supervisors have a phone contact list to get in touch with employees. Please make sure you have your supervisor’s contact information in case you need to reach out.
• If you have any questions about Pandemic Leave, your work schedule, or the newly implemented timesheet coding, please reach out to your supervisor.

We know we’ve been communicating with you a lot but here is an outline of the communications we have been sending to Customers:

• March 13 we announced closure of the PUD’s Main Office and informed customers of the various ways to pay without coming into the office. We issued this announcement through press release to local media and agencies, posted on Cowlitz PUD website take-over page feature, social media posts.
• March 13 through current, we are continuing to update website, social media and local media with the information as it changes. Participation in daily calls with DEM, PIO and the County/City Meetings to update on PUD changes. Coordinating with WPUDA to be included in the state-wide communications.
• March 18, launched radio ads on all local stations:

“Cowlitz PUD is working towards expanding how we can assist our customers during this difficult time in our community and our nation. We understand the economic hardship this can put onto our customers. If you are struggling with your bills or anticipate struggling with your bills, please give one of our Customer Service Representatives a call at 360.423.2210 or visit us online at cowlitzpud.org. We are in this together and can get through this together. Cowlitz PUD, your power.”

• March 23 mailed postcards to all customers advising of the office closure and ways to pay bill. (I received mine today)
• March 24, worked with OT/IT and Billing to include additional messaging on all April bills:

“Please continue to make payments to the best of your ability. WE ARE NOT ENDING BILLING. YOUR UTILITY BILLS WILL CONTINUE TO ACCUMULATE. IF YOU ARE EXPERIENCING OR ANTICIPATE HARDSHIPS WITH YOUR BILLING, PLEASE CONTACT OUR CUSTOMER SERVICE DEPARTMENT AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Now more than ever, our neighbors could use your help. If you are able to donate to the Warm Neighbor Fund, please consider making a contribution today.”

 Health

• No new cases to report – 3 active at this time
• 79 negative tests as of yesterday

General County Admin

• Canceled Board’s public meetings next week; Stay Home and Stay Healthy next week

Woodland

• Continuing to expand efforts for people to work from home
• City parks are still open fully, wondering what others are doing with their parks

Kalama

• Closed playground equipment; restrooms and open space are accessible

 Longview

• Canceled this Thursday’s council meeting; next meeting will be April 9th
• Parks are open, but have closed down the playgrounds with signage; preclude children and families from gathering, but still allowing access to trails and open space